Bobby McFerrin & Yo-Yo Ma

vocal // contemporary classical

Sadly, too many people only will recall “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” when they think Bobby McFerrin. Beyond novelties, McFerrin actually brought a lot of innovation to a capella and music, in general. The song below comes from his 1999 collaboration with cello master Yo-Yo Ma. In a simply divine arrangement, McFerrin’s voice and Ma’s cello weave lyrical lines together and apart, creating a sonic landscape that escapes categorization. I hear hints of Akira’s Dolls’ Polyphony in the tune (and since it was released only 2 years after the movie, I bet it’s more than coincidence.)

I got to see Bobby perform in Seattle a week or so ago. It was fantastic. During his vocal improvisations, which ranged from sublime to funky he did this hilarious compressed version of all the Wizard of Oz music. I’ve never seen someone so exuberant and having such a great time on stage. He’s also very good at getting the crowd to participate.

what a great site! so lucky to have found it. also i’m lucky enough to have been raised with parents who love bobby mcferrin for his other music, especially his collaborations with the likes of chick corea and, obviously, yo yo ma.

question, to which i assume the answer is yes: have you heard aesop rock’s song “garbage,” in which he samples from “grace?” it’s really what turned me on to him, hearing an old favorite used so creatively. good stuff.